A single long day from Alice Springs turns into a lifetime of stories at Uluru: guided Mala and Mutitjulu walks, an Aboriginal Cultural Centre visit, and a sunset BBQ with sparkling wine. Here’s what to expect and how to be prepared.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The bus pulls off the Stuart Highway while the sky is still a pale promise; by the time the scrub loosens and Uluru first appears, the rock has already begun to claim the light. On this full-day run from Alice Springs you spend most of your waking hours traveling across central Australia’s red plain, then trade miles for minutes at a place that seems to compress time itself—Uluru. You watch the stone cool and warm as the sun slides behind it, a glass of sparkling wine in hand and a smoky outback barbecue set behind you.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
Approximately 18 hours (full‑day)
Fitness Level
Suitable for people with basic mobility—short guided walks; be prepared for long periods on a coach.
Wildlife
History
Uluru is central to Anangu law and Dreaming; the Cultural Centre explains how songlines and art link stories to specific places around the rock.
Conservation
Park fees and passes support rangers and cultural programs—stay on marked tracks, don’t take stones or artifacts, and pack out any litter.
Reserve your spot on the Ayers Rock Day Trip from Alice Springs Including BBQ Dinner today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Buy your park pass ahead
From 1 April 2026 you must purchase the Uluru‑Kata Tjuta National Park Pass before arrival—carry a digital copy to avoid delays.
Hydrate for the desert
Bring at least 1.5 L of water and sip regularly; the coach ride plus exposure to sun makes dehydration easy.
Wear non‑slip walking shoes
Walks include uneven rock and sandy tracks—sturdy shoes with good grip will keep you steady at the base and around waterholes.
Plan for a long day
Expect ~18 hours total (early pickup, long coach travel, late return); bring snacks, a charged phone, and patience for schedule buffers.
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides grip on rock and sandy tracks during base walks.
1.5 L water bottle
Keeps you hydrated through long coach travel and exposed walks.
Wide‑brim sun hat & sunscreen
Essential protection from strong desert sun, especially midday.
summer
Warm layer or windbreaker
Desert nights get cold after sunset—bring a jacket for the BBQ and return trip.
winter